Each year, the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity reinforces its reception facilities by mobilizing more logistical, human, material, and technical resources. Marhaba 2017 was carried out from June until mid-September to promote tourism among Moroccans living abroad.

Approximately 2 million Moroccan expats made return trips to the kingdom during this time.

The ministry said in a statement that the success of this year’s transit initiative was made possible due to the efforts and the close collaboration provided by the Moroccan authorities and the different institutions involved.

The Spanish ministry added that the collaboration and coordination with the Moroccan authorities were “essential” to achieve this success.

“The arrangements put in place were able to serve the requirements of the Marahaba operation, which dealt with one of the most important transit movements of both citizens and vehicles between the European and African continents during a three-month period,” according to the statement.

“Despite the increase in the number of people who have transited through and forth the kingdom and Europe, this year’s transit operation was marked by smoothness and security,” explained the department.

Marhaba 2017 was carried out by the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, in coordination with port and airport authorities, the Royal Gendarmerie, the General Directorate for National Security and Customs Administration.